Geophysics and Meteorology with Professional Placement

Geophysics and meteorology together address the physical behaviour of the Earth and its atmosphere, two domains that are deeply connected and that together determine the conditions in which life on this planet exists. Geophysics uses the principles of physics to probe the structure and dynamics of the Earth, from seismic waves that reveal the composition of the deep interior to the magnetic and gravitational fields that define the planet's character from the outside. Meteorology applies physical principles to the atmosphere, explaining how weather systems form and evolve and how climate is determined by the coupled behaviour of the oceans, atmosphere, and land surface.

At the University of Edinburgh, this five-year programme combines rigorous physical and mathematical training with specific expertise in both disciplines. You will develop a thorough grounding in physics and applied mathematics, then apply that foundation to the study of earth structure, seismology, atmospheric dynamics, climate science, and weather prediction. Computational methods and data analysis are central to both disciplines and will be developed throughout the programme.

The degree includes a professional placement, giving you extended experience in a relevant organisation, and a year abroad, which may place you in a research institution or university with expertise in one or both of the subject areas. Edinburgh's position in Scotland and its connections to Scottish and international earth and climate science research provide an exceptional environment for this combination.

Graduates of geophysics and meteorology programmes work in a range of demanding and important sectors. Meteorologists find roles at the Met Office, in environmental consultancies, in aviation, in the energy sector, and in academia and research institutes focused on climate. Geophysicists work in the oil and gas industry in exploration roles, in environmental monitoring and hazard assessment, in mining and resources, and in academic research.

The growing field of climate science draws graduates from both disciplines, as does work on natural hazard assessment and disaster risk reduction. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study, and research careers in both geophysics and atmospheric science are active and well-funded internationally.